Over the last several weeks, the Lady Vikings soccer team has discussed what it takes to be mentally tough in the face of adversity. Fighting through a growing list of injuries and illness, the ladies proved last night that they are in fact a mentally tough team by winning in come from behind fashion 2-1 over the Reagan Lady Raiders at Nelson Field.

Finding themselves down 1-0 at half via a questionable PK given to the Raiders, the Lady Vikings were confident at half time that we were the better team with more clear chances and better overall ball movement. Fifteen minutes into the 2nd half, our hard work paid off with a PK awarded after a nasty challenge in the box on freshman workhorse Gladis Mendez. While many junior and senior leaders refused to take the kick, freshman superstar Leslie Salinas stepped up and calmly slotted a beautiful goal into the side netting. For those unfamiliar with the game, a PK can be one of the most nerve racking and tense moments of the game, but Leslie showed true character and competitiveness by stepping up in the time of need. For the next ten minutes, Lanier controlled possession, never panicked defensively and created several clear chances for the go ahead goal. Clearly frustrated with her team’s inability to score, Cindy Moreno won a nice challenge with 10 minutes left in the game and proceeded to race 30 yards down the sideline, cut in towards goal and power a laser shot into the back upper 90. No assist needed, Cindy did this one all on her own. The ladies then played 10 tense minutes of defensive soccer to hold on for the huge come from behind victory.

Other key players included Maria Salgado with several huge saves in goal, impressive defensive work from winger turned left back Melisa Gonzalez, key minutes off the bench from Sinthia Bautista, and incredible pace and work rate from midfielder Diana Ramirez.

This moves the Lady Vikings to 2-1 in district and puts them tied for 2nd place. They continue their journey towards a state playoff spot with a game against the Crockett Lady Cougars on Saturday at 10:45am at Burger Annex. JV @ 9am. JVB @ 12:45. I’m sure they’d love to see you out. JV leader America Reyes promises at least 1 goal with a celebration dedicated to any staff in the stands.